Post-laparoscopic Shoulder Pain Management: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Surgical Recovery
• Pain Management

Background:

• Post-laparoscopic shoulder pain (PLSP) is a common complication impacting patient recovery and hospital stay duration.
• Existing consensus guidelines offer limited direction for PLSP prevention and management.
• Non-pharmacological interventions are being explored as adjuncts to traditional analgesics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential etiologies of PLSP.
• To provide a comprehensive summary of current PLSP management strategies, excluding analgesics.
• To identify non-pharmacological interventions for PLSP.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search of relevant databases was conducted.
• Existing studies on PLSP management were reviewed.
• Focus was placed on non-analgesic treatment modalities.

Main Results:

• Thirty articles were reviewed, identifying various treatments for PLSP.
• Interventions included the Trendelenburg position, residual gas discharge, pulmonary recruitment maneuvers, low-pressure pneumoperitoneum, and phrenic nerve blocks.
• Significant inconsistencies in study designs led to varied conclusions.

Conclusions:

• Current research on non-analgesic PLSP management provides valuable insights.
• There is a critical need for further high-quality research to establish definitive management protocols.
• Standardized study designs are essential for drawing consistent conclusions.